Seward Cruise Port, a key entry point for passengers embarking on one-way Gulf of Alaska cruises, offers unique access to Alaska’s stunning interior and to Anchorage, the state’s largest city. Its strategic location sets it apart from other ports further south.
The terminal in Seward is the homeport for over 50% of all cruise ship tourists in the region. The port’s proximity to downtown Seward ensures visitors can easily access local attractions, dining, and shopping.
One of the highlights of disembarking or embarking in Seward is the chance to visit the Alaska SeaLife Center, an educational aquarium just a short distance away. This facility showcases Alaska’s unique marine species.
However, most who disembark in Seward head north to Denali National Park. With seamless transportation options and breathtaking scenery, the port of Seward is not only a departure point but also an integral part of our Alaskan adventure.
Where Is The Seward Cruise Port
The Seward Cruise Ship Terminal is approximately one mile south of the city’s historic downtown area and its facility can accommodate two ships simultaneously. This ideal spot offers easy access to numerous local attractions.
The port is specifically located at 913 Port Avenue. It features the Dale Lindsey Seward Intermodal Facility. Its airport hangar structure connects cruise passengers to both local and regional transportation options.
Unlike Whittier cruise port, which is open year-round to commercial vessels and cruise ships, Seward opens seasonally for the latter. August is the warmest month for visitation, but only expect highs in the low 60s.
The nearest international airport to Seward is in Anchorage, over 120 miles away. Ted Stevens International Anchorage Airport is a large facility that offers many airline options and direct flights to significant hubs further south.
Which Cruise Lines Dock In Seward
Several major cruise lines use the Seward Cruise Port as an embarkation and disembarkation point for Gulf of Alaska itineraries. Major cruise lines operating in Seward include:
- Celebrity Cruises.
- Norwegian Cruise Line.
- Royal Caribbean International.
- Regent.
- Crystal.
- Viking.
- Hurtigruten.
Seward is particularly appealing due to its proximity to attractions like Kenai Fjords National Park. Although Princess Cruises and Holland America Line dock in Whittier further north, some of their extended itineraries include days in Seward or nearby Copper River.
Transportation Between Seward And Anchorage
Traveling between Seward and Anchorage offers several convenient and scenic options. Each method has its own advantages, whether you prefer the comfort of a bus, the experience of a train ride, or the flexibility of renting a car.
The distance from Seward to Anchorage is 127 miles, double the travel route from Whittier.
Alaska Railroad
The Coastal Classic train offers a picturesque route from Anchorage to Seward or vice versa for those who appreciate scenic views. The train journey takes about four hours, with a brief stop in Girdwood. There is one train that leaves each morning as follows:
- Departure from Anchorage: 6:45 AM.
- Arrival in Seward: 11:20 AM.
When disembarking in Seward, one train leaves each evening for Anchorage and may not be the best option for those with flights. Departure and arrival times are as follows:
- Departure from Seward: 6:00 PM.
- Arrival in Anchorage: 10:15 PM.
While the Alaska Railroad has service from Seward to Denali, it requires an overnight stay in Anchorage, although the Seward to Talkeetna trip can be done in a day.
Bus Services To Or From Seward
The Anchorage to Seward bus provides an efficient travel method with several daily departures. The bus ride typically takes around 3 hours, making it a faster and more affordable alternative to some train options.
Some companies, like the A.C.T. Big Bus, offer shuttle service with scenic stops and activities around Girdwood. So, if visiting the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center or Exit Glacier is on your bucket list, consider a 4- or 8-hour shuttle service.
The Park Connection Bus is an excellent choice for a quick transfer. It’s also budget friendly at USD 75 for the Seward to Anchorage route.
Unlike the train, cruise guests can travel on a bus between Seward and Denali in one day. The 10-hour journey costs under USD 200.
One-Way Car Rentals
Car rentals are a great way to travel between Anchorage and Seward, but they’re not the most economical option for one or two people. However, a rental provides freedom to go at your own pace and makes sense for a family of four.
Hertz, Thrifty, Alaska Auto Rental, and Alaskan Car Rental operate in Seward. Of the four, Hertz and Alaska Auto Rental offer one-way rentals when heading to Anchorage.
Seward Cruise Ship Terminal Facilities
The metal hangar building at the port is simple and has basic passenger amenities. The large, cavernous structure has washrooms, a large waiting area with lots of seating, drink vending machines, and Seward City Brews, a local coffee shop.
However, there is no complimentary Wi-Fi service or place to store luggage. We prefer to arrange our Wi-Fi before leaving home. Since we aren’t US residents, we use Airalo eSim, which is affordable and costs under US 10 per trip.
There are areas of Alaska where Wi-Fi can be spotty, such as remote locations in Talkeetna and Denali.
Passengers can also find vendors offering rental cars and local excursions at the port. These vendors often offer tours:
- Seward Hospitality Group has information on lodgings, dining, and activities in the area.
- Marathon Helicopters: choose from quick 15-minute tours to extended excursions with glacier landings.
- Major Marine Tours offers half and full-day boat excursions to Kenai Fjords. These tours combine glacier and wildlife sightings.
Car Rentals
Several car rental services offer local and one-way rentals inside the hangar. We recommend booking in advance during peak cruise seasons to ensure availability, especially for one-way rentals.
Seward Excursions
Seward offers a plethora of excursion options that cater to various interests. For those who like to connect with nature, there are many scenic hiking trails for every ability.
Wildlife tours, glacier cruises, fishing adventures, and kayaking expeditions in Resurrection Bay are plentiful for outdoor adventurers. These all begin from or near the cruise terminal.
Many excursions last between three to six hours, allowing ample time if catching a late train to Anchorage. While most cruise guests head out of Seward immediately after disembarkation, the area has a treasure trove of activities worth exploring.
Exploring Seward
Seward is an area of extreme natural beauty. Being close to Kenai Fjords National Park makes it an ideal spot to visit and enjoy.
Here, we explore some of the most captivating activities and sites available to visitors.
Kenai Fjords
Anyone exploring Seward must visit Kenai Fjords National Park, which is known for its breathtaking glaciers, fjords, and diverse marine wildlife. Taking a Kenai Fjords Glacier and Wildlife Cruise is the best way to see it.
Unlike fjords in other areas of Alaska, this one features a rugged coastline with arches and rock stacks. The unusual rock stacks are the result of collapsed arches.
The caves and alcoves provide shelter for thousands of birds, including orange-beaked puffins, which are a tourist favorite. Tours through the Kenai Fjords often spot sea otters, seals, and even whales.
Like the Harding Icefield Trail, hiking trails within the park reward visitors with panoramic views of the icefields and surrounding landscapes. Packing layers for changing weather is wise, ensuring preparation for an unforgettable day in this pristine wilderness.
Alaska SeaLife Center
The Alaska SeaLife Center is an engaging destination showcasing local marine life. Some cruise lines include it on their Alaska cruise and land tour itineraries.
This facility combines education, research, and regional conservation efforts. Visitors can observe sea otters, seals, and fish species through large underwater windows.
The center also features interactive exhibits highlighting the importance of marine ecosystems in Alaska. Daily presentations and feeding demonstrations enhance the experience, making it an ideal family stop.
Exit Glacier
Exit Glacier, located within Kenai Fjords National Park, is easily accessible and doesn’t require a boat tour to reach it. Its well-marked trails offer various viewpoints of the glacier.
Take a shortened one for distance views or a challenging route for a fantastic close-up view of glacial landscapes. The sound of cracking ice at the face reminds me of the glacier’s dynamic nature.
The 2-mile round trip to the glacier’s edge is perfect for families or those looking for a manageable hike. Informational signs during the hike provide insights into glacier formation and climate change.
Mount Marathon Jeep Trail
The Mount Marathon Jeep Trail offers a thrilling experience for those seeking adventure. This partly rugged and steep route is famous for its annual mountain running competition.
The running route is steep and dangerous and should only be attempted by advanced scramblers. The easier route follows a jeep road, switching back up the mountain at a more reasonable incline.
The trail meanders through lush forests and rocky terrain, showcasing the region’s diverse flora and fauna. Once above the tree line, it gets more challenging.
Fishing
Seward is renowned as one of Alaska’s premier fishing destinations. Species like halibut, salmon, lingcod, and rockfish are commonly sought after, with many charters providing all necessary gear.
Of the salmon species, King or Chinook can reach 50 lbs. But smaller pinks and silver (coho) are just as prized. Catching our own fish to take home enriches and embodies the spirit of Alaskan adventure.
Dog Sledding
Dog sledding is an iconic Alaskan experience we’ve enjoyed in various locations. Several operators offer tours that allow guests to drive their own team of sled dogs or ride along as passengers. Mushing our dog team was a bucket list experience we will never forget.
These tours often take place on glaciers or through beautiful landscapes. Choose from the following operators:
- Seward Helicopters offers dog sledding at Godwin Glacier.
- Turning Heads Kennel offers dog mushing with a cart ride through the woods.
- Seavey’s IdidaRide provides both kinds of dog sledding, one on dirt and the other on ice. Their helicopter dog sledding tours take place on Punchbowl Glacier.
Sledding on a glacier is expensive due to the cost of a helicopter, but dog mushing is cost-effective, especially when traveling as a family.
